Market Developments

For those who want more education, JA will help pay

New York--Jewelers of America is helping to make professional development affordable to its members by offering scholarships on industry education that cover up to 60 percent of the cost of leading diploma, jewelry courses and certification programs, the organization announced recently.

JA will be awarding the 2014 scholarships from now through Sept. 30.

The scholarships are available from top industry education providers, including the Gemological Institute of America’s distance education course, the Diamond Council of America home-study courses, and the Jewelers Education Foundation of the American Gem Society.

JA also is offering scholarships to cover up to 60 percent of fees for its Bench Professional Certification program.

“Jewelers of America is thrilled to help aspiring members of the trade achieve greater professional development from top industry education through our scholarship program,” said Susan Thea Posnock, JA director of public affairs and education. “Scholarships are a valuable benefit that often far exceeds the cost of annual membership and make additional jewelry training an affordable, realistic option for our member companies and their employees.”

The scholarships are open to employees of JA member firms who are 18 years of age or older.

For more information, visit JA’s website or contact Member Services at 1-800-223-0673.